John Schickel, a Republican and former state senator, is running for Boone County Commission District 2 in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. The race also includes Democrat Lianna Simpson Nguyen.
Schickel said he is running because the county's rapid growth demands experienced leadership. He is certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady election data.
Candidate information
- Party: Republican
- Office sought: Boone County Commission, District 2
- Education: Master's in Public Administration, Northern Kentucky University
Experience and public service
Schickel represented District 11 in the Kentucky State Senate from 2009 to 2025, according to BallotReady. Before the state senate, he served as Boone County jailer, an elected position overseeing the county jail.
He also worked as a law enforcement officer with the U.S. Marshals Service in the Eastern District of Kentucky, a role he held as of 2002, according to the NKY Tribune. He has taught as an adjunct professor at Northern Kentucky University, where he also earned his master's degree.
On the issues
Growth, public safety and fiscal responsibility
Schickel has framed his campaign around three themes: public safety, infrastructure and government accountability. In a candidate questionnaire response, he said: "With the county growing rapidly, taxpayers deserve experienced leadership that understands public safety, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility."
He said he would work to "protect our communities, support smart growth, and ensure efficient, transparent government" as commissioner. Schickel said the county should remain "safe, strong, and well-managed for the next generation."
He has not released detailed policy proposals or specific funding plans beyond those broad priorities. No information about endorsements was available.
Candidate responses were collected through a questionnaire. Statements attributed to Schickel reflect his own answers unless otherwise noted.
